Category: Gaming

  • GuliKit Elves 2 Pro: Affordable $50 Sega Saturn-Inspired Controller

    GuliKit Elves 2 Pro: Affordable $50 Sega Saturn-Inspired Controller

    Key Takeaways

    1. The GuliKit Elves 2 Pro controller is inspired by the Sega Saturn gamepad and is available in two color variants: ‘SS Retro’ and ‘Dark Black.’
    2. It features a floating D-pad with 8-direction and 4-direction modes, Hall Effect joysticks with 2200-level precision, and interchangeable thumbsticks.
    3. The controller includes a magnetic levitation vibration motor with three vibration modes and nine levels of intensity, along with semi-auto and full-auto firing modes.
    4. Compatible with Nintendo Switch, Windows (7+), iOS (13+), Android (4.0+), and Steam Deck, it connects via Bluetooth or wired, with a battery life of up to 20 hours.
    5. The Elves 2 Pro is priced at $49.99 and is available for purchase on Amazon and the GuliKit store.


    Many companies that make gaming accessories have products that draw clear inspiration from the classic gamepads of older consoles. A good example is GuliKit, which has just released its latest controller, the Elves 2 Pro, taking cues from the Sega Saturn gamepad.

    Color Variants and Design

    The Elves 2 Pro comes in two colors that match the original controller. The first is called ‘SS Retro,’ which is white and features colorful action buttons along with burgundy shoulder and trigger buttons. The second option is ‘Dark Black,’ where all buttons, triggers, and thumbsticks are black, except for the wireless button, which is a striking blue.

    Features and Specifications

    This new controller boasts a floating D-pad specifically designed for fighting games. Users can easily switch the D-pad between 8-direction mode and 4-direction mode. It also features Hall Effect joysticks that deliver an impressive 2200-level precision. While the joysticks have domed caps, they can be swapped out for GuliKit’s King Kong thumbstick kit, which includes anti-friction rings and different heights.

    Another standout aspect of the Elves 2 Pro is its innovative magnetic levitation vibration motor, allowing players to toggle between three vibration modes (HD Rumble mode, Super Haptic Mode, and Rotor Vibration Mode) and nine levels of vibration. The controller also supports semi-auto and full-auto firing modes, includes a six-axis gyroscope, and provides motion assist. GuliKit claims that it features a 10-minute auto-pilot gaming function.

    Compatibility and Connectivity

    The Elves 2 Pro works with the Nintendo Switch, as well as devices running Windows 7 or newer, iOS 13 or newer, and Android 4.0 or newer. It is also reported to be compatible with the Steam Deck and Windows handhelds like the ROG Ally. The controller connects via Bluetooth with a polling rate of 170Hz, but can also function in wired mode with a 1,000Hz polling rate. Its 800mAh battery is designed to last up to 20 hours on a single charge.

    GuliKit has set the price at $49.99 for the Elves 2 Pro, and it’s currently available for purchase on Amazon and the official GuliKit store.

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  • Open-Source RTS Beyond All Reason Unveils Major Engine Update

    Open-Source RTS Beyond All Reason Unveils Major Engine Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhanced Multiplayer Capability: Beyond All Reason has improved its ability to manage large multiplayer battles, supporting thousands of units after the Season 2 update in March 2025.

    2. Impressive Stress Testing: The game has shown strong performance in stress tests, with battles featuring over 100 players and more than 10,000 units.

    3. Positive Player Feedback: Players have reacted positively to the game, praising it for its expansive team battles and referring to it as a premier RTS experience.

    4. Future Growth Plans: The developers plan to release BAR on Steam and are actively working on internationalization, with multiple language translations in progress.

    5. Community-Driven Development: BAR is an open-source project utilizing the Recoil engine, attracting developers and players interested in scalable RTS design.


    Beyond All Reason (BAR) is an open-source real-time strategy (RTS) game that utilizes the community-driven Recoil engine, which is a fork from SpringRTS. Recently, the game has greatly improved its capability to manage large multiplayer battles. After its Season 2 update in March 2025, the developers made backend enhancements tailored for matches with thousands of active units, showcasing the game’s real-time performance at never-seen-before scales.

    Impressive Stress Testing Results

    Stress tests conducted on BAR have highlighted its impressive performance, with community battles in early 2025 featuring more than 100 players and over 10,000 units. In an April 2025 interview with MB Gaming Reviews, lead developer Beherith shared insights on their design philosophy: “You look at a unit, and with just a few clicks, you can move it, attack ground, and see, okay, this one launches a plasma projectile, this other one fires a missile, it has this reload time, this projectile speed, and this area damage… We think that’s an excellent way forward.”

    Positive Player Reception

    The feedback from players has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding the large-scale RTS battles. One player, Wulfric_Drogo, labeled it “a love-letter to fans of big, expansive team versus team RTS,” while another, anab0lic, praised it as “the best RTS currently available.” Sean Plott, also known as Day9TV and a well-regarded figure in the RTS community, remarked on BAR’s massive 8v8 matches with thousands of units displayed as “pretty sweet.”

    Future Plans and International Growth

    Though BAR is currently not available on mainstream commercial platforms, its consistent growth, openness, and technical focus continue to draw in developers and players fascinated by the potential of open-source RTS design at scale. The developers have announced intentions to release the game on Steam, although a specific release date has yet to be revealed. In the meantime, BAR is undergoing significant internationalization efforts, with French and Russian fully integrated, and Simplified Chinese and Spanish translations nearing completion.

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  • Watch Doom: The Dark Ages on Twitch for a Free Slayer Skin

    Watch Doom: The Dark Ages on Twitch for a Free Slayer Skin

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bethesda is hosting a Twitch Drops campaign for Doom: The Dark Ages from May 12 to June 2, allowing players to unlock an exclusive Doom Slayer Guardian skin by watching on Twitch.

    2. The exclusive skin features the Slayers Club logo on the Shield Saw, promoting community pride within the game.

    3. Players can claim the skin by watching the game on Twitch and redeeming the skin code found in their Twitch inventory.

    4. Doom: The Dark Ages launches on May 14 and will be available on multiple platforms, including Game Pass, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, PS5 Pro, PC, and Battle.net.

    5. The game has received positive feedback for its stunning visuals and a 20-hour campaign that focuses on melee combat, incorporating new parry mechanics.


    Bethesda has unveiled a Twitch Drops campaign for Doom: The Dark Ages, allowing players to unlock an exclusive Doom Slayer Guardian skin just by watching the game. This limited-time event will take place from May 12 through June 2 and is available to all viewers who tune into the official Twitch category for the game.

    Unique Skin Details

    The exclusive skin showcases the Slayers Club logo on the Shield Saw, providing players a way to show their community pride in-game. We have put together a simple guide on how to take part and claim your reward.

    Watching and Redeeming

    To get the skin code for free, first, you need to watch DTDA on Twitch. Once you find the skin code in your Twitch inventory, you can easily redeem it following the instructions provided.

    This promotion aligns with the game’s launch on May 14th, which will be available on Game Pass, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, PS5 Pro, PC, and Battle.net. Additionally, players who opt for the Premium Edition will gain access to bonus items like the Digital Artbook, Original Soundtrack (OST), and the Divinity Skin Pack.

    Critical Reception

    In our internal assessment, Doom: The Dark Ages received acclaim for its breathtaking visuals and a 20-hour campaign that introduces a significant shift towards melee-focused combat, integrating parry mechanics with medieval violence. While this new style may split opinions among long-time fans of Doom Eternal’s fast pace, it offers a fresh perspective. Moreover, it’s compatible with Steam Deck, enhancing accessibility for players wanting action on the go.

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  • Doom: The Dark Ages x Prince St. Pizza Exclusive Skin & Game Pass

    Doom: The Dark Ages x Prince St. Pizza Exclusive Skin & Game Pass

    Key Takeaways

    1. Promotion Dates: The Hellfire Pepperoni Pizza is available from May 12 to June 15 at Prince St. Pizza locations in the U.S. and Toronto.

    2. Special Rewards: Ordering the Hellfire Pepperoni Pizza unlocks special rewards linked to the game.

    3. Game Release Date: Doom: The Dark Ages launches on May 15, 2025, for multiple platforms, including Xbox Series X|S and PS5.

    4. Early Access: Early access to the game began on May 12 for those who bought the Premium and Collector’s Editions.

    5. Game Features: The Dark Ages features a 20-hour campaign with melee combat, a parry system, and various difficulty options, set in a new medieval backdrop.


    To celebrate the release of Doom: The Dark Ages on May 15, Xbox has teamed up with Prince St. Pizza for an exciting promotion: the Hellfire Pepperoni Pizza – a spicy, Doom-themed dish packed with flavor and bonuses.

    Special Features of the Pizza

    This exclusive pizza is available from May 12 to June 15 at Prince St. Pizza locations throughout the U.S. and Toronto. With each Hellfire Pepperoni order, you unlock special rewards.

    Game Release Information

    This promotion aligns with the worldwide launch of Doom: The Dark Ages on May 15, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S, PS5, PS5 Pro, PC, and Battle.net. It will also be available on launch day for Xbox Game Pass (Ultimate and PC). As previously reported, early access began on May 12 for those who purchased the Premium and Collector’s Editions.

    Lawrence Longo, the CEO of Prince St. Pizza, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “Creating a pizza that fits the Doom world was so much fun. It’s got bold flavors, a strong attitude, and just a hint of chaos – kind of like the Slayer.”

    Game Review Highlights

    In our internal review, The Dark Ages provides an impressive 20-hour campaign with dynamic gameplay changes, featuring melee combat, a parry system, and extensive options for difficulty adjustments. While some may find the absence of Doom Eternal’s fast pace and energetic soundtrack noticeable, the new medieval backdrop and level designs bring a refreshing perspective to the series.

    In summary, this collaboration between Xbox and Prince St. Pizza is sure to excite fans.

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  • Anbernic RG34XX SP: Release Date and Pricing for Clamshell Handheld

    Anbernic RG34XX SP: Release Date and Pricing for Clamshell Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. The RG34XX SP will be released on May 16, with an early bird price of $59.99 available until May 19.
    2. After the early bird period, the price will increase to $66.99 for all color options, which include a 64 GB MicroSD card.
    3. The device features a 3.4-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels, supporting Game Boy Advance titles with 3x integer scaling.
    4. It is powered by the Allwinner H700 chipset and includes 2 GB of RAM for better performance.
    5. The RG34XX SP has a 3,300 mAh battery and supports USB Type-C charging.


    Anbernic has announced the release date for the RG34XX SP, which is set for May 16. As is their tradition, the company is introducing a special early bird price to encourage gamers to buy their newest handheld device. This model follows the trends set by the Miyoo Flip V2 and the RG35XX SP, which is currently priced at $76.99 on Amazon.

    Pricing Details

    For this launch, Anbernic has priced the RG34XX SP at $59.99, a significant drop from the $234.99 price tag of the RG557 that was released just weeks ago. Retro Handhelds reports that this early bird pricing will be available until May 19. After this date, the price will increase to $66.99 for any of the four color choices that come with a 64 GB MicroSD card.

    Specifications

    In terms of specifications, the RG34XX SP boasts a 3.4-inch IPS screen with a native resolution of 720 x 480 pixels, which allows for 3x integer scaling when playing Game Boy Advance titles. While the device uses the same Allwinner H700 chipset as the RG35XX SP, Anbernic has added 2 GB of RAM for improved performance in certain scenarios. The RG34XX SP is powered by a 3,300 mAh battery and supports USB Type-C charging. For more details, check out the video linked below.

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  • Nvidia GeForce Launches Doom: The Dark Ages Driver for Early Access

    Nvidia GeForce Launches Doom: The Dark Ages Driver for Early Access

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia released GeForce Game Ready Driver version 576.40, optimizing for Doom: The Dark Ages, launching early access on May 14th and full release on May 15th.
    2. Doom: The Dark Ages, using id Tech 8, enhances gameplay for RTX users with features like DLSS Super Resolution, DLAA, and improved image clarity, especially for RTX 50 cards.
    3. A post-launch update will introduce complete path tracing with DLSS Ray Reconstruction, enhancing lighting quality.
    4. Nvidia expanded the DLSS override feature to support 15 more games and added new Optimal Playable Settings profiles and G-SYNC Compatible monitors.
    5. Gamers purchasing qualifying RTX 50 Series products can receive the Premium Edition of Doom: The Dark Ages for free until May 21st, which includes early access and bonus content.


    Nvidia has recently released its new GeForce Game Ready Driver (version 576.40), providing complete optimization for the upcoming game, Doom: The Dark Ages. This latest installment from Bethesda’s renowned series will begin its early access phase on May 14th for those who purchase the Premium Edition. The official launch is set for May 15th and it promises a significant visual upgrade for the Doom series, featuring ray tracing, DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation, and Nvidia Reflex.

    Enhancements for RTX Users

    Developed using id Software’s advanced id Tech 8 engine, Doom: The Dark Ages aims to deliver an intense medieval combat experience, specifically tailored for GeForce RTX users. Owners of the RTX 20, 30, 40, and 50 Series graphics cards will benefit from features like DLSS Super Resolution and DLAA, alongside the newest transformer-based AI models that promise outstanding image clarity. Furthermore, users with RTX 50 cards can expect DLSS 4 to provide frame rates up to 4 times higher. A post-launch update will also bring complete path tracing with DLSS Ray Reconstruction, elevating lighting quality even further.

    Additional DLSS Support

    Nvidia has expanded the DLSS override feature in its application to support 15 more games, including titles like Warframe, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, and Spirit of the North 2. Additionally, this update introduces two new Optimal Playable Settings profiles and adds seven new G-SYNC Compatible gaming monitors to the mix.

    Promotional Offer for Gamers

    As part of a continuing promotion, customers who purchase qualifying RTX 50 Series graphics cards or laptops can receive the Premium Edition of Doom: The Dark Ages, valued at $99.99, for free until May 21st. This Premium Edition comes with early access, campaign DLC, a digital artbook, soundtrack, and the Divinity Skin Pack for the Slayer, dragon, and Atlan mech.

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  • Revolutionary FPS Game Now Just $4 on GOG – Huge Discount!

    Revolutionary FPS Game Now Just $4 on GOG – Huge Discount!

    Key Takeaways

    1. Revitalization of the Franchise: Doom 2016 successfully reinvigorated the series with a more intense gameplay experience and a memorable main character, the Doom Slayer.

    2. Hellish Setting: The game is set on Mars during a demon invasion, featuring a storyline that can be ignored in favor of fast-paced action.

    3. Diverse Arsenal: Players have access to a wide range of weapons, including iconic ones like the Super Shotgun and functional chainsaw, adding to the satisfaction of gameplay.

    4. Distinctive Soundtrack: The soundtrack by Mick Gordon combines Djent, metal, and industrial music, enhancing the gaming experience and making it enjoyable for workouts.

    5. Affordable Gaming: Doom 2016 is available for just $3.99 on GOG, making it an accessible entry point for new players ahead of the release of its sequel, Doom: The Dark Ages.


    2004’s Doom 3 was seen as a big letdown because it attempted to juggle too many ideas at once and ended up failing badly. Learning from this, idSoftware went back to the basics and spent a whole thirteen years rethinking their approach. They returned in 2016 with Doom, which was a huge hit, unlike its earlier counterpart. Now, nearly nine years later, this game can be played on practically any PC made in the last ten years, and even on handheld devices like the Steam Deck.

    Revitalizing the Franchise

    Doom (often called Doom 2016) breathed new life into the series and cranked the intensity way up. The main character, once just a forgettable hero, transformed into the Doom Slayer, a fierce demon destroyer known for his extreme brutality. From the very start, you find yourself smashing an imp’s skull into a coffin, and the level of destruction only escalates from there.

    A Hellish Setting

    Set on Mars, Doom 2016 drops you into the middle of a hellish invasion. Your mission is to put a stop to this chaos, just like you’ve done in previous installments. Unlike earlier versions of Doom, this game actually has a bit of a storyline, but you can easily choose to ignore it. After all, there are demons to take down, and you can’t let story details slow you down.

    A Diverse Arsenal

    As with its predecessors, Doom 2016 features a broad array of weapons, including iconic ones like the Super Shotgun and BFG. The chainsaw is now a functional weapon in your arsenal, and using it to shred a demon before watching it burst into ammunition is incredibly satisfying.

    A Distinctive Soundtrack

    While Doom 2016 shines as a technical marvel with its high-speed action, what truly distinguishes the game is its soundtrack. Mick Gordon’s unique mix of Djent, metal, and industrial music enhances the experience of battling through hordes of hellish creatures. Plus, it doubles as excellent workout music. Seriously, give it a try.

    Affordable Gaming

    You can grab Doom 2016 on GOG for only $3.99. Although it has been cheaper on Steam in the past, it is currently at full price there. Now is a perfect opportunity to dive into Doom 2016 if you’re new to the series. With Doom: The Dark Ages set to launch on May 15 for PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Game Pass, you can experience the game that started it all before jumping into its sequel, Doom Eternal.

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  • Nintendo Today: Switch 2 Battery Life Could Improve with Stop Charging Feature

    Nintendo Today: Switch 2 Battery Life Could Improve with Stop Charging Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 features a 5220 mAh lithium-ion battery, promising 2 to 6.5 hours of playtime, but high-demand games may drain it quickly.

    2. A new battery management feature allows users to stop charging around 90% to help maintain battery health and reduce degradation.

    3. The original Switch experienced battery performance decline over time, causing frustration and leading to repairs; a battery-saving setting could have mitigated this.

    4. The new feature will not inherently increase the Switch 2’s battery life, as demanding games may still consume power quickly due to improved performance specifications.

    5. Limited hands-on testing makes it difficult to accurately assess the Switch 2’s playtime, but the new feature aims to enhance battery longevity.


    Battery life is a key issue for any gaming handheld, especially when a device claims to deliver better performance. The specifications for the Switch 2 show that it will be powered by a 5220 mAh lithium-ion battery. It is promised to provide between 2 to 6.5 hours of playtime, but high-demand games could quickly drain its power. Fortunately, a video from Nintendo Today has unveiled a feature that might help in maintaining the health of the Switch 2 battery.

    Battery Management Feature

    In the clip shared by Nintendo Today, a user is seen activating a setting called “Stop charging around 90%.” When connected to a USB-C cable, viewers can observe the battery indicator slowly climbing up to 88% before it halts. Lithium-ion batteries tend to wear out quicker when they are fully charged because of excessive electrochemical reactions. To minimize this degradation, it’s advisable to keep rechargeable devices at 80% or below. This strategy is similar to the safety measures that smartphones use, which were highlighted in the video about the Switch 2.

    Past Issues with Battery Performance

    Many players using the original 2017 Switch have noticed a decline in battery performance over time. This decline has frustrated users to the point where they have opted to send their consoles in for repairs. Had the first Switch included a battery-saving setting, it could have reduced the number of replacement devices needed. Nevertheless, not many gamers are keen on keeping an eye on their handhelds to stop charging at a specific percentage.

    Sadly, this new feature will not inherently increase the battery life of the Switch 2. When compared to its predecessor, it is expected that games will demonstrate a wider range of performance. With a 1080p display and a refresh rate that goes up to 120Hz, some games are likely to consume the battery power of the Switch 2 more quickly than others. Steam Deck users face a similar challenge, as demanding titles can necessitate recharging in less than two hours.

    Testing Limitations

    The limited-time hands-on sessions make it hard for testers to accurately gauge the playtime of the Switch 2. Regardless, gamers will have access to a new feature to help maintain their battery’s longevity.

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  • Pre-Order the World’s First 500Hz OLED Monitor Now

    Pre-Order the World’s First 500Hz OLED Monitor Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 is the first gaming monitor with a 500Hz refresh rate and a response time of 0.03ms.
    2. It features a 27-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) QD-OLED panel with a peak brightness of 1000 nits and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification.
    3. The monitor is Pantone certified, reproducing over 2100 colors and supporting Nvidia G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro for smooth gameplay.
    4. Samsung has included a dynamic cooling system and thermal modulation to prevent burn-in from static images.
    5. The monitor is currently available for pre-order in Southeast Asian countries, with a wider global release planned later this year.


    The very first OLED gaming monitor boasting a 500Hz refresh rate is ready for pre-order. Samsung has started accepting orders for the Odyssey OLED G6 in various Southeast Asian countries. The monitor is priced at SGD 1,488 (€1,024 or £864.27).

    Display Features

    This 27-inch G60SF screen showcases a 500Hz refresh rate and a response time of just 0.03ms (GTG), along with a QHD (2560 x 1440) QD-OLED panel. It carries the VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification at a 10% Average Picture Level (APL), reaching a brightness of 1000 nits and a minimum brightness of 800 nits. Samsung claims that performance was measured at 3% APL with HDR activated, with peak brightness set to “High”.

    Color and Compatibility

    The panel holds Pantone certification, allowing it to reproduce over 2100 colors, including 110 distinct skin tones from the Pantone library. Additionally, it supports Nvidia’s G-SYNC and AMD’s FreeSync Premium Pro, ensuring smooth gameplay across various platforms.

    To combat potential burn-ins, Samsung has equipped the monitor with a dynamic cooling system designed to disperse heat, along with a thermal modulation system that adjusts brightness automatically. The monitor can also recognize static images, such as logos or taskbars, and can lower brightness dynamically to prevent burn-in issues.

    Visual Performance

    With a peak brightness of 1000 nits, the Odyssey OLED G6 employs glare-free technology, minimizing reflections on its surface. Samsung asserts that this monitor “provides vibrant, realistic visuals that immerse gamers in worlds exactly as developers envisioned.”

    Initially, the monitor will be launched in Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia, with plans for a wider global release later this year.

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  • MSI Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest Edition Returns for Global Release

    MSI Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest Edition Returns for Global Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. The MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Polar Tempest Edition are hard to find since their launches, with the Polar Tempest Edition recently reintroduced.
    2. MSI has created a dedicated product page for the Polar Tempest Edition, marking its official return after being removed from retailers.
    3. The Polar Tempest Edition is set to launch in the U.S. on July 15, featuring upgraded specs like 2 TB of storage and a new model name.
    4. The pricing for the Polar Tempest Edition remains at $999 in the U.S., while it has been listed at €1,107 on Amazon Germany.
    5. The new version is expected to arrive in Europe this summer, with no current listings in other countries.


    The MSI Claw 8 AI+ continues to be hard to find for many people, even though it was officially introduced towards the end of last year. The Polar Tempest Edition of this handheld is even harder to catch, as it was launched in early April but was quickly taken down from MSI’s website and also from retailer Excalibur PC.

    Official Return of Polar Tempest Edition

    Now, the Polar Tempest Edition seems to be back with what looks like an official launch. In the past, MSI only had links to buy this version through other retailers. However, the company has now set up a specific product page for the Polar Tempest Edition, which wasn’t available just a month ago.

    Release Date and Specs

    MSI is expected to launch the Polar Tempest Edition on July 15 in the United States, featuring white front panels and offering 2 TB of storage, which is an upgrade from the original Sandstorm model. The pricing is still set at $999, and the model name has been updated from Polar Tempest Edition-071US to Polar Tempest Edition-084US.

    Availability in Europe

    Interestingly, this new version has been spotted on Amazon Germany with a listing price of €1,107. Currently, there are no similar listings in other countries. Nevertheless, Amazon Germany indicates that the Polar Tempest Edition is likely to arrive in Europe this summer. For more details, you can check our earlier review of the Claw 8 AI+, where we share our opinions on MSI’s first 8-inch gaming handheld, which is a strong competitor to the Lenovo Legion Go S in terms of size. (curr. $623 on Amazon).

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